What does the change mean? Among the occupations that were moved from the SOL to the CSOL are Mining Engineers, Metallurgists, Environmental Health Officers, Occupational Health and Safety Advisers, Dental Hygienists, Dental Prosthetists, Dental Technicians and Dental Therapists. Orthotists or Prosthetists and Audiologists were added to the SOL.

Implementation time frame: 1 July 2016.

Visas/permits affected: Changes to the CSOL affect a number of visas, including Subclass 457, 186 and 187 visas. The changes to the SOL affect visas for migrants applying independent of a nomination or employer sponsorship, including Subclass 189 and 489 visas.

Who is affected: Employers and migrants working in the occupations listed above.

Business impact: The changes to the CSOL and SOL are designed to help fill jobs where there is a shortage of labour and, in this respect, may be a boon to business in Australia.